What Are Kidney Stones?

Kidney stones are hard, mineral-based deposits that form in the kidneys. They develop when substances like calcium, oxalate, and uric acid crystallize and clump together due to insufficient fluid intake or other factors. When these stones move through the urinary tract, they can cause severe pain, nausea, and difficulty urinating.

Symptoms of Kidney Stones

Some common signs that you may have kidney stones include:

• Sharp pain in the lower back or side
• Pain that spreads to the lower abdomen or groin
• Blood in urine (pink, red, or brown urine)
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills (if infection is present)

If you experience these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention to determine the size and location of the stone and explore removal options.

Kidney Stone Removal Options

There are several treatment options available, depending on the size and location of the kidney stone:
1. Natural Passage (Home Remedies & Hydration)
For small kidney stones (less than 5mm), drinking plenty of water (2-3 liters per day) can help flush the stone out naturally. Pain relievers and prescribed medications can ease the discomfort while waiting for the stone to pass.

2. Medications to Help Passage
Doctors may prescribe alpha-blockers (like tamsulosin) to relax the muscles in the urinary tract, allowing the stone to pass more easily. This approach is helpful for moderate-sized stones that are causing discomfort but not blocking urine flow.

3. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)
This non-invasive procedure uses sound waves to break larger kidney stones into smaller fragments that can pass through the urine. ESWL is commonly used for stones that are too large to pass naturally but do not require surgery.

4. Ureteroscopy (Laser Treatment)
For stones lodged in the ureter (the tube connecting the kidney to the bladder), a thin, flexible tube called a ureteroscope is inserted through the urinary tract. The stone is either removed directly or broken down with a laser before being extracted.

5. Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL)
For large kidney stones that cannot be treated with ESWL or ureteroscopy, a small incision is made in the back, and a special instrument is used to remove the stone directly from the kidney. This is a minimally invasive surgical procedure with a short recovery time.

6. Open Surgery (Rare Cases)
Open surgery is rarely needed but may be recommended for extremely large or complex kidney stones that cannot be treated with other methods. This involves a larger incision and a longer recovery period.

What to Expect After Treatment

• Pain Relief: Most procedures provide immediate relief from severe pain.
• Increased Hydration: Drinking more water can help prevent future stones.
• Dietary Changes: Reducing sodium, oxalate-rich foods (like spinach and nuts), and animal protein can lower the risk of stone formation.
• Follow-up Care: Regular check-ups ensure complete removal and monitor for recurrence.

Why Choose Urocentre for Kidney Stone Treatment?

At Urocentre, we offer state-of-the-art kidney stone treatments tailored to your specific needs. Our expert urologists use advanced diagnostic tools and minimally invasive procedures to ensure quick recovery and minimal discomfort.
If you are experiencing kidney stone symptoms, don’t wait for the pain to worsen. Book an appointment at Urocentre today and get relief from kidney stones with the best urological care available.

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